For a decade, Majid Michel was the leading man West African audiences wanted. In Ghanaian and Nigerian romance films of the 2000s, he played the handsome, troubled lover, and fans queued for his movies. Then he began to talk about faith, and his career took a different path.
Early life
Majid Michel was born in Ghana in 1980. His father was a Lebanese businessman and his mother is Ghanaian.
Acting start
He began acting in Ghana in the late 1990s and early 2000s, appearing in television and film. His breakthrough came in Ghanaian movies that found audiences across Africa through home video.
Nollywood
Michel moved into Nigerian films, working with stars such as Genevieve Nnaji, Ini Edo and Rita Dominic. He became one of the few Ghanaian actors equally popular in both countries.
Romance king
His roles were often romantic or dramatic, with emotional scenes that made him a heartthrob. Films such as Agony of the Christ and many romantic dramas built his reputation.
Awards
Michel was nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2009, 2010 and 2011 before winning it in 2012. He has received other awards in Ghana and Nigeria.
Faith
From the mid-2010s, Michel became outspoken about his Christian faith. He began preaching and sharing sermons, and said he would avoid roles that conflicted with his beliefs.
Changing roles
He has continued acting, but more selectively, and has appeared in faith-based and serious dramatic roles.
Family
Michel is married to Virna Michel, and they have children. He has spoken about the importance of family in his life.
Influence
Michel helped strengthen the connection between Ghanaian and Nigerian film industries, paving the way for other cross-border stars.
Ghana’s film boom
Michel’s rise coincided with a boom in Ghanaian films in the 2000s, when producers such as Shirley Frimpong-Manso and Venus Films created polished romantic dramas. Many of those films were watched across Africa, and Michel was often the face on the cover.
Fan loyalty
Even after he reduced his acting, fans continued to follow Michel on social media and at events. Many say his romance films are still the ones they rewatch.
Plenty of actors reinvent themselves. Majid Michel’s reinvention took him from the romance shelf to the pulpit, and his fans followed him there too.
